A procedure to repair or reconstruct the AC joint, often due to injury or arthritis.
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint sits where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. Reconstruction is performed through an open incision or arthroscopically, depending on the underlying problem, using a graft or suture-based technique to restore the ligaments that normally stabilise the joint. The procedure typically takes one to two hours and is usually performed as day surgery or with an overnight stay.
Assessment beforehand includes examination and imaging such as X-rays or an MRI to confirm the diagnosis and plan the surgery. Standard preoperative steps apply: fasting before the anaesthetic, review of regular medications, and arranging someone to drive you home afterward.
A sling is worn for a period after surgery to protect the reconstruction while the tissues heal. Pain is managed with simple analgesia in the initial days. Physiotherapy begins once the surgeon confirms it is safe to start, and full recovery, including a return to sport or heavy lifting, generally takes several months.
Rehabilitation typically starts with gentle, protected range-of-motion exercises, avoiding load on the reconstructed ligaments in the early weeks. Strengthening exercises are introduced progressively as healing allows, guided by the surgeon and physiotherapist, with return to contact sport or heavy work delayed until the joint has adequate strength and stability.
As with any shoulder surgery, risks include infection, stiffness, and reactions to anaesthesia. Specific risks for this procedure include recurrence of instability if the reconstruction does not fully heal, and irritation from any hardware used, which occasionally requires later removal.
The aim is a stable, comfortable AC joint that allows a return to normal activity, including sport where relevant. Most patients experience good pain relief and restoration of shoulder function, though the specific outcome depends on the severity of the original injury or arthritis and how closely the rehabilitation programme is followed.
AC joint reconstruction addresses instability or arthritis at the joint on top of the shoulder, aiming to relieve pain and restore stable shoulder function. Outcomes depend on completing the full rehabilitation programme, and most patients return to their usual activities over the following months.
